Can Christians justify self-defense or owning firearms?
Can Christians justify self-defense or owning firearms? The Bible offers varying perspectives on self-defense, with verses like Luke 22:36 and Exodus 22:2-3 suggesting it can be acceptable, while others like Matthew 5:39 advocate for peace and non-retaliation. This raises thought-provoking questions about faith, stewardship, and trust in God.
The topic of self-defense and firearm ownership often sparks intense discussions, especially among Christians who seek to align their choices with biblical teachings. The Bible provides insights into the value of life, the call to turn the other cheek, and the responsibility to protect oneself and others. Verses like Luke 22:36, where Jesus tells his disciples to purchase swords, and Exodus 22:2-3, which addresses self-defense, are often referenced in these debates.
However, other scriptures, such as Matthew 5:39, urge followers to resist retaliation and promote peace. This tension raises questions: Is owning a firearm for self-defense a form of wise stewardship, or does it conflict with trusting God and pursuing peace?
What do you think? Can Christians justify owning firearms or engaging in self-defense, and how do you interpret the Bible’s guidance on these issues?
I think he is trying to say that if one holds the view that Christians should not act in self-defense, then it is the same as opening the doors and allowing opposing forces free entry.
We are born with the urge to defend ourselves. I don’t think it is a bad thing. And most folks will probably hesitate to use firearms even in self defense. Since the Bible doesn’t seem to take issue with death penalties, self defense is probaably not an issue, particularly if “not kill” is interpreted as “not murder”.
I own a gun, a sword, a long dagger, and a few softball bats. Don’t mess with me.
Its an intersting one for us Brits . You will get sent to prison for defending yourself with a firearm or any weapon for that matter . Hence, knife crime over here is rampant due to a lesser sentence being given out to perpetrators . Even acting in self defence would probably end up with you being charged with manslaughter if you kill or seriously wound someone who breaks into your house. Our laws say you can use reasonable force. But, thats a gray area . Peoples opinions on reasonable force vary. All we can do is protect ourselves the best we can in accordance with the legal framework we have in this country. We have a huge German Shepherd which is a good deterrant . Its not a subject that is debated much amongst Christians in this country . But, in the heat of the moment, if someone was in my house in the dead of night and assuming my dog hadn’t severed his arm, would i protect our home, yes i would .
Here, even in liberal California, we have a “castle doctrine” where a person has an intrinsic right to defend his home and property from intruders-- Orcs included.
198.5. Any person using force intended or likely to cause death or great bodily injury within his or her residence shall be presumed to have held a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or great bodily injury to self, family, or a member of the household when that force is used against another person, not a member of the family or household, who unlawfully and forcibly enters or has unlawfully and forcibly entered the residence and the person using the force knew or had reason to believe that an unlawful and forcible entry occurred.
